Oscar Wilde: An Idler's Impression

"Oscar Wilde: An Idler's Impression" by Edgar Saltus is a biography that captures the essence of Oscar Wilde's fascinating life, starting from his celebrated literary success to his scandalous downfall and imprisonment in the 1910s. Saltus paints a vivid picture of Wilde, showcasing his sharp intellect, captivating charm, and flamboyant personality as well as his tragic struggles with social norms. The book recounts personal meetings the author had with Wilde, illustrating his wit in conversation, while tracing the pivotal moments that defined his life. Saltus aims to capture Wilde’s brilliance and eventual ruin, presenting him as a complicated figure whose genius was ultimately overshadowed by misfortune, revealing the dual nature of success and failure.